5 players Barcelona should target in the January transfer window

#2 Leon Goretzka (Schalke 04)

Leon Goretzka has been linked with a move to the Camp Nou

Leon Goretzka has established himself as one of the hottest young prospects in Europe at Schalke 04 and his flashy performances have already seen the likes of Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Arsenal vie for his signature.

German newspaper SportBild reported Goretzka's meeting with Barca representatives to finalise a move to the Camp Nou in January with the 22-year-old's contract with Schalke expiring in the summer. If he fails to extend his contract, the German outfit may have no option but to offload him in winter rather than lose him for free.

Valverde has opted for a 4-4-2 formation over the preferred 4-3-3 this season, with Ivan Rakitic and Sergio Busquets in midfield. The German prodigy could slot into midfield either alongside Busquets or as his replacement when the need arises.

Goretzka has notched 4 goals - better than the Rakitic, Busquets, and Iniesta combined (2). Compared to their targets Philippe Coutinho and Mesut Ozil, Goretzka has better chances of joining Barcelona this January.

Goretzka's signing will also be a prudent move towards safeguarding Barcelona's future in midfield.